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We were offered up to $70,000 at 0% interest for buying in City Heights
I do agree that this sounds a bit like a PR piece for Community Housing Works. Just know that CHW is not the only way to go for these types of loans. The type of loan being discussed in this article is a CRA mortgage. I spoke with a loan officer at my bank who is putting me in touch with the person at my bank who handles CRA mortgages. I would venture to say that many major lenders will help you with a CRA loan if you ask. Otherwise, they may default to steering you into an FHA loan which doesn't offer as many perks. No matter who you get a CRA loan through, you have to take the class. CHW charges $60 for the class, which can be reduced to $40 if you qualify for the reduction. I would venture to guess that no matter who you go through for a CRA loan, you will have to pay some nominal fee for the class, but I don't know yet. Also be aware that one of the worst things you can do is go through the same person for everything: loan, agent, inspection, etc. Most real estate agents are willing to help handle everything from pre-qualification to closing if you let them, but it's not a good choice. Find the best people for each job.— March 28, 2012 9:51 a.m.